The attack against the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and those with pre-existing conditions has hit a fever pitch. From the federal level down, the Trump administration, and other federal and state leaders have threatened health care protections for millions of Americans – All during a global pandemic that has put millions at risk, and taken the lives of over 210,000+.
Right here in Michigan, however, there is a strong force of community leaders standing up for health care protections. Their hard work is ensuring that the 1.2 million Michiganders who rely on the health care coverage granted to them through the ACA is protected. It also ensures that vulnerable Michiganders with pre-existing conditions aren’t at risk of losing their health care coverage.
First, Kelly Breen and Dan O’Neil, State Representative candidates of districts 38 and 104 respectfully, understand the interconnectedness of stable, thriving communities and quality health care. They are advocates of standing up for those with pre-existing conditions, and ensuring all Michiganders have access to the health care options they need to survive.
Laurie Pohutsky and Brian Elder, State Representative candidates of districts 19 and 96, also have a track record of supporting Michigan residents worried about losing their health coverage during the global pandemic crisis. They have both stood up to ensure health care, especially for those with pre-existing conditions, isn’t gutted during this incredibly vulnerable time.
Bard Anness, State Representative candidate of district 45, has dedicated her career to fighting for health care protections for her community. She has fought to expand Medicaid, expand access to mental health care, and lower the cost of life saving prescriptions. She is a supporter of the Oakland Health 360 initiative, which would close the healthcare coverage gap for over 227,000 Oakland County residents.
State Representative candidate of district 25, Nate Shannon, is a former teacher who has spent his career supporting his students and their families. This includes ensuring Michigan families have access to life-saving prescriptions and care without facing financial hardship. During his first term, he sponsored bills to limit co-pays on insulin in Michigan and protect access to healthcare for Michiganders.
Julia Pulver, State Representative candidate of district 39, has dedicated her career as a nurse to affordable health care and healthcare advocacy. She has stood up for Michigan patients as a patient advocate to ensure they are protected from laws that could harm them. She’s also has fought for universal healthcare, to ensure that no Michigander, especially those with pre-existing conditions, face a situation where they are unable to get the treatment they need due to their health coverage status.
Finally, for Christine Morse, State Representative candidate of district 61, access to health care coverage for all, including those with pre-existing conditions, hits close to home. As a breast cancer survivor, Christine has seen firsthand the flaws in our healthcare system that leave Michiganders vulnerable to financial hardship. She will fight for affordable health care coverage for Michigan families, so that no family is faced with a devastating decision during a medical emergency or diagnosis.
These eight community leaders all care deeply about the health and safety of their neighbors. They’ve dedicated their careers to ensuring that the health care of Michiganders is protected, no matter what. They aren’t afraid to stand up to insurance companies, or fight for those with pre-existing conditions, to ensure that all have access to the quality, affordable health care they deserve.
